Best Fertilizer for Shrubs: NPK Ratios and Schedules
Shrubs form the backbone of most home landscapes. Flowering shrubs like hydrangeas and azaleas have specific nutrient requirements tied to bloom production, while evergreen shrubs need steady nitrogen to maintain dense foliage. Most shrubs benefit from a single spring application with a slow-release granular fertilizer.
10 Shrubs Fertilizer Guides
Each guide below includes the recommended NPK ratio, application rate, seasonal schedule, and product suggestions for that specific shrub. Data sourced from university extension services.
Frequently Asked Questions: Shrubs Fertilizer
How do I fertilize shrubs?
Spread granular fertilizer evenly under the canopy of the shrub, extending slightly past the drip line. Apply at the rate recommended on the product label, typically 1 to 2 tablespoons per foot of shrub height. Water thoroughly after application to dissolve the granules and carry nutrients to the roots. For established shrubs, one application in early spring is usually sufficient. Newly planted shrubs benefit from a lighter application 4 to 6 weeks after planting.